Lynelle Clark's Blog, page 98

Blog tour for Absolution by Amanda Dick. Read an excerpt from this new release and enter the giveaway.

A freak accident, a moment in time, and life changes forever. Stay or go - there's no such thing as the easy way out. 


The accident wasn't his fault but in the horrific aftermath, Jack's actions may have possibly caused consequences he could never have foreseen. Consumed with guilt and unable to listen to reason, he takes the only option he believes is open to him: he disappears. Living a quiet life away from everyone he loves, he drops off the grid but the memories continue to haunt him. 

Four years later, a funeral signals a homecoming fraught with tension as he finally forces himself to face up to the consequences of his actions. Betrayed and angry, his former best friend Callum wants nothing more than to see him disappear once again - for good this time. Meanwhile his ex-girlfriend Ally has moved on and he can see that his return is anything but easy for her. People change, life goes on and things are never as simple as they seem. The past has a habit of catching up with you when you least expect it. 
Living with regret and guilt almost tore him apart, but there is no guarantee that trying to make amends will soothe his soul or help the people he loves the most. 
Courage has many faces. Fighting for what you believe in, no matter what. Showing strength of mind and body when the cards are stacked against you. Rising to the challenge and playing through the pain. 
And yet sometimes, courage means simply standing your ground.
BUY LINKSAmazonBarnes & NobleKobo

EXCERPT
“You want to know if I told her about what happened that night.”
Callum glared at him, and Jack could tell he was on the right track. “The answer is no, I didn’t. But why the hell didn’t you? You were there, you knew.” “Because it wasn’t my place to tell her – it was yours.” Callum snapped. “Jesus, Callum! You just let her think God knows what, all this time?” “What the hell do you care what she thought! You weren’t here, remember? I didn’t tell her because what the hell would be the point?” “What would be the point?” Jack repeated indignantly. “She would have known!” “Known what? That you were a coward? She figured that one out for herself when she woke up and you were gone!” Jack opened his mouth to speak, but Callum cut him off. “Don’t you dare come back here and start blaming me or anyone else! No one told you to go – you made that choice yourself.” Callum hissed, eyes blazing. “You did the wrong thing then and by coming back now and stirring it all up again, all you’re doing is making it worse. You’re here for your own selfish reasons, not because of Tom or because of her!” “I’m trying to make it right!” Jack insisted, heart racing. “And how in the hell do you think you’re gonna do that?” Jack stared at him dumbfounded, knowing that he had asked himself that question a million times and come up empty. “She doesn’t need you anymore. The best thing you can do now is just crawl back into whatever hole you crawled out of and leave her be.” Jack shook his head determinedly, his heart pounding. “No. I’m not going anywhere, not this time.” Callum laughed scornfully. “That’s your master plan? Seriously?” Jack glared at him in silence, his anger mounting. “Oh come on – you gotta admit, that’s a reckless statement, especially for you.” Callum snorted derisively. “You disappear when the going gets tough, remember?” Jack clenched his teeth so tight his jaw ached. “That’s not what happened and you know it.” “Do I? Because that’s what it looked like from where I was standing!” “You know damn well why I left!” Jack blurted out, his voice thunderous and desperate. “You knew what I did – you were there!” “Yeah, I knew what you did - big deal! You were trying to save her life - she wouldn’t have blamed you!” he said hotly. “You did the wrong thing, Jack – you should’ve stayed.” Jack stared at him, his heart racing. He thought about the relationship they used to have – how close they were. Like brothers. And now this; strangers - worse than that; enemies. “I made a mistake.” he choked. “I won’t make that mistake again.” Callum shook his head. He stood up straight and took a step backwards, eyeballing Jack as he forced his hands back into his pockets. “Here’s the thing – you made your choice. Now you have to live with it, just like the rest of us. You can’t change what happened and if you stick around, you’re only gonna hurt her. Is that what you want?” Jack opened his mouth to reply but Callum didn’t give him a chance. “She was just starting to get her life back together, after everything she’s been through. Don’t rip it all apart again.” he pleaded quietly, clearly emotional. “Do the right thing this time - leave.”

AUTHOR BIO

Amanda Dick is a night-owl, coffee addict, movie buff and music lover.  She also writes.

Born in Opotiki, New Zealand, she is rather partial to dark chocolate and believes in the power of a good vanilla latte.  She has a passion for the colour green (particularly in clothes and gemstones) and insists there is nothing sexier than a man in a kilt. 

She spent several months traveling around Europe in her late 20’s (there’s a story there – she’ll get around to writing it one day).  After ridding herself of her wanderlust, she met the love of her life (while working to pay off said wanderlust) in Edinburgh, Scotland.  They moved in together the week after their first date – so yes, she believes in love at first sight.  She also believes in Women's Intuition and following your heart. 

She writes on her trusty laptop, predominantly late at night, when it's quiet and interruptions are few.  Most of all, she enjoys writing about human behaviour - love, loss, joy, grief, friendship and relationships in general.  She loves to put normal, everyday people into situations that will test their boundaries.  She is passionately curious about how we, as human beings, react when pushed to the edge. 

After living in Scotland for five years, she has now settled back home in New Zealand, where she lives with her husband and two children.
AUTHOR LINKSGoodreadsFacebookAmazonWebsiteTwitterBlog

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Cover Reveal for When Camels Fly by NLB Horton.

Publisher: NLBHorton, via Amazon’s White Glove (May 15, 2014)

Agent: Mary Keeley at Books & Such Literary Management

Category: Contemporary suspense, thread of Romance

Tour Date: May/June, 2014

Available in: Print & ebook, 370 Pages

Blurb
A mother’s fatal shot. A daughter’s deadly choice. In Israel, archaeologist Grace Madison shoots her daughter’s abductor. Seconds later, a handsome shepherd drops from the sky to kill a second assassin. Their world changes in two blinks of an eye. Unbeknownst to them, a fiercely ambitious evil is destroying everything in its path—the unconventional path Grace and Maggie take. They struggle to right a wrong as old as time, and discover time is running out in the race for their lives. Family and friends are swept into their vortex, extinguishing old flames while igniting new loves. While the scale tips dangerously toward disaster, millions of lives hang in the balance. And the mother-and-daughter team soon realizes nothing is as it seems. Even each other. Because choosing what’s right is all that’s left.

Advance Praise for When Camels Fly:

"When Camels Fly brings an interesting twist to the typical suspense novels that I read. Usually, some man is the main character, who swoops in to rescue the girl, solve the mystery, and set all things right. Not so with this novel. The main character is a delightful woman named Grace, who is a brilliant archaeologist, but definitely no Indiana Jones. More comfortable digging and researching than getting involved in international “incidents,” Grace is lured (or dragged, she’d admit) into intrigue and danger when she discovers her daughter, Maggie, has been kidnapped. Like a mama grizzly, Grace heads out to find and rescue her daughter, get the bad guys, and make her daughter comply with her demands (essentially, go home and stay out of trouble). But Maggie has uncovered a disastrous plot that could affect the entire Middle East. And only Maggie (and now Grace) can do something to stop the mayhem and evil. When Camels Fly, of course, has intrigue and suspense, action-packed scenes, some fun humor, and vivid descriptions of Israel and the Middle East that will make you think you’re there in the middle of the action. But its strength really lies in its characters, in particular the mother-daughter relationship with its friendship and tension, which will have you rooting for the dynamic duo. These women are intelligent and strong. No swooning here, readers. And for those readers who still love a bit of romance, this novel provides twists and hints at love blooming. There's married love (the reader watches a “real” marriage between Grace and her husband and how they process the struggles of staying in love after decades), love lost but possibly found (Grace’s son and “the one” he let get away, to his great distress, or did he?), and love begun (Maggie meets a potential “one” or two suitors). The first in a series, you won’t want to miss When Camels Fly. It’s a fun read—maybe even something you could read with your mom!"—Ginger Kolbaba, author of Desperate Pastors Wives and A Matter of Wife and Death

"NLB Horton’s debut novel, When Camels Fly, incorporates features I have never before encountered in one novel: suspense, science, family, religion, and Middle Eastern intrigue. Middle-aged archaeologist Grace Madison, Ph.D., binds these elements as heroine, and my inner feminist cheered her, and the cast of characters, from the first page through the last. The Madison women — Grace and daughter Maggie, a hydrologist — are very human and very smart. Their relationship is complex, but loving and insightful, and laced with humor. They wrestle with moral questions in intelligent and intuitive ways, and are unafraid to do the right thing to protect family and produce the greater good. Mark and Jeff Madison, Grace’s husband and son, respectively, provide backup while working through a complicated relationship of their own, and attempt to rescue women who are completely capable of rescuing themselves. The characterizations of this mature family are worth the price of the book. One charming surprise — and there are many in this novel — is Grace’s octogenarian seminary professors, former spies for Mossad who converge in Israel and Jordan to assist the family they hold dear. Their espionage skills, masked by the perceived harmlessness of the elderly, allow them to move about undetected, and assist the Madison family in creative and unexpected ways. Another unique aspect of When Camels Fly is the incorporation of science and history as backdrops for the storyline. Horton’s enjoyable and interesting depiction of hydrology and geology are well researched, and give legitimacy not only to herself, but also to her characters. The technical knowledge isn’t overwhelming, but provides a solid foundation that increases the story’s tension. From drugged kidnappings and shootings at the Western Wall to a minor-key version of The Commodores’ Brick House in Jericho, When Camels Fly empowers women and family in an entertaining adventure. Unstoppable women, well-placed humor, and critical contemporary issues make this book my top read so far in 2014, and I’m watching for news of Horton’s second manuscript, scheduled to release later this year."- Leigh Bennett, Reader

"I picked up When Camels Fly, and I couldn't put it down because the dramatic opening hooked me. Right off the bat, the relationship between Grace Madison and her grown daughter, Maggie, was committed, funny, and endearing — ideal, actually. They’re smart, adventurous women stranded in Israel, running for their lives, initially unaware that Grace’s husband Mark and son Jeff are in hot pursuit. Author NLB Horton’s vigorous dialogue moved the story along, and portrayed each character as uniquely intriguing. Her descriptions of Israel and Jordan were an enjoyable way to learn more about that part of the world, and it’s obvious she’s “been there, done that.” I felt as if I were in the markets and atop the camels, participating in the story. One of the most interesting aspects of When Camels Fly is that it’s contemporary suspense from a woman’s viewpoint, set in a part of the world normally filtered through a male lens. And it presents the region in a realistic, approachable way. I particularly appreciated Horton’s strong portrayal of the squadron of elderly intelligence agents. I don’t think I’ve ever encountered a novel in which senior citizens (and I am one) were crafted with such lively respect. The Madison family is a refreshing, healthy model in the world of contemporary literature, where dysfunctional or overly simplistic family portrayals reign. When I discovered the end of the novel alluded to the story continuing in the next book in the series, I was delighted. I look forward to continuing the adventure begun in When Camels Fly."- Lillian Bohannon, Reader



  About NLB Horton:



After an award-winning detour through journalism and marketing and a graduate degree from Dallas Theological Seminary, NLBHorton returned to writing fiction. She has surveyed Israeli archaeological digs accompanied by artillery rounds from Syria and machine gun fire from Lebanon. Explored Machu Picchu after training with an Incan shaman. And consumed afternoon tea across five continents. When Camels Fly is her first novel. Her second, The Brothers’ Keepers, will be available November 2014. Website: http://www.nlbhorton.com
 Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/pages/NLB-Horton/289059931145461 
Twitter: https://twitter.com/NLBHortonPinterest: http://www.pinterest.com/nlbhorton/

Review Tour for Birth of an Assassin by Rik Stone.

Birth of an Assassinby Rik StoneGenre: ThrillerBook Description:Set against the backdrop of Soviet, post-war Russia, Birth of an Assassin follows the transformation of Jez Kornfeld from wide-eyed recruit to avenging outlaw. Amidst a murky underworld of flesh-trafficking, prostitution and institutionalized corruption, the elite Jewish soldier is thrown into a world where nothing is what it seems, nobody can be trusted, and everything can be violently torn from him.Given the order to disperse and arrest a crowd of Jewish demonstrators in Red Square, Jez breaks up the rally but discovers his sisters in their ranks. Rushed for a solution, he sneaks the girls from under the noses of secret police and hides them in downtown Moscow. But he knows they will no longer be safe in Russia. He has to find them a safe route out. The journey begins, but he is unaware that his every move is being observed and that he has set in motion a chain of events that will plunge his life into a headlong battle to stay alive.

Author Bio:Do children born into poverty become impoverished adults? It happens; pitfalls and roadblocks to advancement are everywhere. Rik Stone grew up poor amidst the slum-lands of fifties North East England, and left school at 15 without any academic qualifications.He worked in the shipyards on a local river and later went into the merchant navy. Further down the line, he worked quarries in Essex in South East England.But life was without horizons until, contrary to what his teachers had told him, he found he was capable of studying and completed a BSc degree in mathematics and computing.Life got lucky for him when he took company pension at 50 and began writing. And now, here he is offering up his debut novel Birth of an Assassin, the first in a series.
Buy Links :
Amazon UK./ B&N. / Kobo

Waterstones / Amazon US

Contact Links: Website: http://rik-stone.simdif.com / Twitter: @stone_rik
5 Star ReviewI received the book from the touring host for an honest review. As a lover of romance books I must say this first; awwww. For twenty plus years the two main characters, Jez and Anne loved each other greatly, with no idea how the other felt. When careers came into play they had to choose and at the end their choices brought them together in an unbelievable way. Now that, that is out of my system I must admit that I loved this thriller tremendously. The author methodically shaped this story; scene by scene he brought us an interesting story. Every scene was a building block or stepping stone for the next scene, ever building to the final conclusion.
The story begins in 1941 and we are taken all over Russiain the time when the Iron curtain was still up and the communist party ruled the country with an iron fist. But instead of the normal story of people versus the government we are led into the corrupted world of high ranking Spetznaz and KGB officers that manipulated people for their own benefit. Greed was alive and well within the government when the people starved and had to do without the most basic items.
Jez Kornfeld wanted to be a soldier all his life. He dreamed of it, talked about it and at the end walked away from home to become that. Recruited at fifteen, he met Col. Michel Petrichova right in the beginning who made sure he got the perfect training for his own plans. Here he met Anne Puchinsky, and the two became friends fast. Soon the love blossomed between them and when he had to safe her from the clutches from a corporal; who wanted to force his advances on her; they got separated. But yet the love remained and since we only read about Jez, we never knew if it were mutual; for the most part of the story. That is until Anne had to trail Jez when he tried to safe his sisters. At this point in the story she was the aide for General Petrichova who had tested his prodigy at every turn, I did mention that Jez was Jewish, right. Well that will give you a good idea of just another twist in this well written story that will keep you glued to this book.
While in training he had to learn everything within the military and made friends with Captain Viktor. Stepping through the ranks with ease and becoming a lieutenant at the end where he was stopped by a shady captain that hated Jews. When his family comes into the story, he was already away from home for a very long time and only his eldest sister knew him. The other two were too young to remember him. From here on out the story developed quickly and you are taken into the world of greed, trafficking and prostitution. Set up for the fall more shady characters came to the fore front, all under the geese of national security; doing what they do best; enriching them without getting caught. But they have underestimated Jez, a very tenacious soldier who was willing to fight back.
Everything was stacked against him, he was threatened, called a traitor, falsely accused, arrested and brutally tortured for crimes he didn’t commit. He had to escape, live from the land, killing innocent people in the process and was on the run, which took us over the country to find the evidence that would proof his innocence. The story is filled with human emotions as you become part of the intrigues of each character, their reasoning and even self righteousness in some cases. With enough twists and turns that kept you wondering if Jez would ever find the truth and someone who would believe him at the end.   It is a thrilling ride with lots of action and adventure and The birth of the Assassin will not disappoint you; it is descriptive, fast paced and well laid out so that there would be no questions left unanswered; bringing you to a finale that will make you smile.A book I really enjoyed till the end.   

Cover Reveal for 'A Life Less Broken'. Plus Rafflecopter Giveaway

 
*Releases May 12, 2014*

On a day like any other, Allyn Sommers went off to work, not knowing that her life was about to be irrevocably and horrifically altered. Three years later, Allyn is still a prisoner in her own home held captive by harrowing fear. Broken and damaged, Allyn seeks help from someone that fate brought her. Dr. Dominic Shriver is a psychiatrist who’s drawn to difficult cases. He must push past his own personal battles to help Allyn fight her monsters and nightmares. Is Dr. Shriver the answer to her healing? Can Allyn overcome the broken?

   

 


I don't do 'normal'. I've found that the more I write, the more I like being different to other authors. I write in first person, and I love to challenge a reader. I take the normal and switch it around. For me, I really enjoy getting a reaction from a reader. So if I can evoke an emotion (regardless of if it's the emotion the reader wants) then I figure that I've done my job as an author I want to be. I really quite revel in taking people out of their comfort zones and pushing them to read something different. My genre of writing is, well quite frankly, where ever my mind goes. I won't label myself because I don't like sticking to one genre. My goal with writing is just to take people away from whatever is going on in their lives, even if it's only for a split second. I'm a go with the flow sort of person and don't really take a course of action to get where I am going. I live in the moment and don't usually worry about tomorrow because whatever life is due to bring me, I'll be happy to accept. I love my family and friends and will help anyway I can if someone needs it. I really don't like people that are nasty just because they can be, I don't believe that's necessary, I mean life's hard enough as it is! I hope you enjoy my books, I've had a hoot writing them. There's more to come..... Til next time. M xx
* Margaret on FACEBOOK *


Margaret is giving away 2 $5 Amazon gift cards for two lucky winners!

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Blog Tour for Checked by Jennifer Jamelli. Plus a chance to enter the giveaway.

Callie spends countless hours staring at appliances to make sure they are really unplugged. She wastes obscene amounts of time checking for murderers in various corners of her house and entire sleepless nights performing pointless checking rituals. Then every spare minute is filled with inspecting doorknobs, chairs, floors, etc. for minuscule traces of germs. Oh, and she does all of this as she counts to three over and over again in her head. She does this every day. Without fail. Dr. Blake just doesn't fit into her schedule. Until he does. Until Callie begins to trust him. Until she starts to need him. And want him. And . . .


Goodreads     Amazon US     Amazon UK     B & N



Jennifer Jamelli has spent most of her life reading and writing; she holds both a Bachelor of Arts and a Master of Arts in English, and she is an 8th grade English teacher. 
She also directs a musical production each school year. Her most recent show was Beauty and the Beast.Jennifer lives with her husband and her four-year-old son.

She, like the main character in her debut novel, has a rather hopeless case of OCD.

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Websitehttp://jenniferjamelli.com
Publisherwww.48fourteen.com


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How sweet the sound Book Blast by Vanessa Miller. A Historical Gospel Fiction Novel. Giveaway for the US only.

Book Title: How Sweet the SoundPaperback: 288 pagesPublisher: Abingdon Press (March 4, 2014)ISBN-10: 1426749287ISBN-13: 978-1426749285Genre: Historical Gospel Fiction

About The Book Shar Gracey wants nothing more than to sing the Lord’s praises, so she jumps at the chance to join a traveling choir led by the father of black gospel music, Thomas A. Dorsey. Better yet, the opportunity will give her money to pay for her ailing mother’s medical care.While on tour she falls under the tutelage of gospel great Mahalia Jackson—and falls for the handsome but not-so-great Nicoli James, whose desires for Shar are fueled by his own greed. Shar would do anything for Nicoli—and he knows it—so when his life is threatened after a night of gambling, Shar agrees to help pay Nicoli’s debt, only to have her faith and dreams shattered.Reeling from the betrayal, Shar loses her voice and she believes that she will never sing again. She has no place to run except back home to her seriously ill mother—and the man she left behind, who would move heaven and earth to make Shar’s pain go away. Even if it means he has to let her go . . . again.



About The Author Vanessa Miller of Dayton, Ohio, is a best-selling author, playwright, and motivational speaker. Her stage productions include: Get You Some Business, Don’t Turn Your Back on God, and Can’t You Hear Them Crying. Vanessa is currently in the process of turning the novels in the Rain Series into stage productions.Vanessa has been writing since she was a young child. When she wasn’t writing poetry, short stories, stage plays and novels, reading great books consumed her free time. However, it wasn’t until she committed her life to the Lord in 1994 that she realized all gifts and anointing come from God. She then set out to write redemption stories that glorify God.To date, Vanessa has completed the Rain and Storm Series. She is currently working on the Forsaken series, Second Chance at Love series and a single title, Long Time Coming. Vanessa believes that each book will touch readers across the country in a special way. It is, after all, her God-given destiny to write and produce plays and novels that bring deliverance to God’s people. These books have received rave reviews, winning Best Christian Fiction Awards and topping numerous Bestseller’s lists.

Social Links: Email: vmiller-01@earthlink.netWebsite: http://vanessamiller.com/Twitter: https://twitter.com/Vanessamiller01Fa... https://www.facebook.com/Vanessamille... Reader Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/77899021863/

Buy Links :

Amazon paperback: / Ebook: / Barnes & Nobles: 
Hosted by Write Now Literary www.wnlbooktours.com
Tour page: http://wnlbooktours.com/vanessa-mille...
Author is offering 2 ARC of #HSTS.  Open to US only. 
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Review for 'The idea of Him' by Holly Peterson

Publisher: William Morrow  (April 1, 2014)
Category: Contemporary Fiction/ Women’s Fiction
ISBN: 978-0062283108
Tour Date: April/May, 2014
Available in: Print & ebook, 384 Pages

In the fabulous and intrigue-packed new novel from Holly Peterson, the New York Times bestselling author of THE MANNY, THE IDEA OF HIM explores the dangers of falling for the idea of a person, and why facing reality is more liberating than we ever dreamed it could be. For anyone who’s let the fear of being alone keep them from seeing who someone really is, THE IDEA OF HIM is an inspiring, action-packed story of what happens when we embrace our own power and allow the truth to finally set us free.

Allie Crawford has the life she always dreamed of—she's number two at a high-profile P.R. firm; she has two kids she adores; and her husband is a blend of handsome and heroic. Wade is everything she thought a man was supposed to be—he's running a successful newsmagazine and, best of all, he provides the stable yet exciting New York City life Allie believes she needs in order to feel secure and happy. But when Allie finds Wade locked in their laundry room with a stunning blonde in snakeskin sandals, a scandal ensues that flips her life on its head. And when the woman wants to befriend Allie, an old flame calls, and a new guy gets a little too close for comfort, she starts to think her marriage is more of a facade than something real. Maybe she's fallen in love not with Wade—but with the idea of him. Captivating and seductive, told in the whip-smart voice of a woman who is working hard to keep her parenting and career on track, The Idea of Him is a novel of conspiracy, intrigue, and intense passion—and discovering your greatest strength through your deepest fears.

Praise for The Manny:"This is bestsellerland - the manny isn’t one of the popolo minuto. Nope, he’s an about-to-be-millionaire software developer from a neocon background with hot buns and fab abs. Three guesses? A diverting spell in the world of the greedy, The Manny is a genre-bender, sex and shopping and ambition and even a tinge of socialism, and brilliant fun."-Heatseeker Reviews"Peterson offers an amusing take on the mating habits of the Manhattan elite. And while the story holds few surprises, it benefits greatly from an attractive pair of would-be lovers."-Kirkus Review"Phillip's temper tantrums...are surprisingly funny, and a subplot where Jamie chases a trashy but potentially career-making story is strong." - Publishers Weekly"I leapt on The Manny and devoured it in one sitting. It's a riveting portrait of millionaires' life on 'The Grid', full of eye-watering details. And it made me instantly want to hire a male nanny...... for me!—Sophie Kinsella, author of Shopaholic & Baby

“Holly Peterson writes about the rich with acute understanding and a drop-dead eye for detail. The funniest, sexiest ride in the limo lane since The Bonfire of the Vanities.” —Tina Brown, author of The Diana Chronicles


About Holly Peterson:Holly Peterson is the author of the New York Times and international best seller, The Manny. She was a Contributing Editor for Newsweek and editor-at-large for Tina Brown’s Talk magazine. She was also an Emmy Award–winning producer for ABC News for more than a decade, where she cov­ered global politics. Her writing has been published in the New York Times, Newsweek, Talk, the Daily Beast, Vogue, Harper’s Bazaar, and other publications.

Website: www.HollyPeterson.com
Facebook: https://m.facebook.com/HollyPetersonny?id=275564372549939&_rdr
Twitter: https://mobile.twitter.com/hollypetersonny
Instagram-http://instagram.com/hollypetersonny 
Pinterest-http://www.pinterest.com/hollypetersonny/pins/

Buy The Idea of Him:

AmazonBarnes and NobleBook Depository



My 5 Star review.

I received the book from the touring host for an honest review.

A fascinating book written from one protagonist view point, Allie Crawford. A young working mother with two small children that struggles with the infidelity of her husband, a tiring boss, a work load that left you breathless at times, and taking screenwriting classes to further her own writing career. Not to mention the issues of bullying at school as she tried to steer her son in the right direction and a little daughter that demand most of her time the moment she was close.

The idea of him is a topic most of us women folk struggles with, me included. From an early age we are so hyped up with finding a man, married said man and live happily ever after that we forget one important thing; me. As a woman you are so wrapped up with the idea of marriage, of belonging, having it all that when your world is shaken you struggle to find yourself in the maze that has become your life. Trying to make sense of it all and what's really your place in the world you are living in.

Allie superbly fitted this description. Loosing her father at a very young age she was looking for a replacement figure that would match the idea she had of her father. When she married Wade she thought he was the perfect match. But early on in the marriage he already showed his real colors and he had an affair with a young thing when she nursed their first born; as the story unfolds you learn more about his indiscretions and how she handled it.

When she met a young blonde woman, Jackie Malone, perfect in every way; who tried to become her friend after she had slept with her husband. Warning her to look closer at what her husband and boss did, and to protect herself; when she followed her advice her life had spin out of control drastically. This added to the plot and soon you were wondering about this woman yourself. What was her intentions? Was she still sleeping with him? Why all the secrets? Leaving Allie and you with many questions and no real answers as more and more things comes to the forefront of this unique story.

Jackie Malone, student, helping her struggling mum had many secrets and in the beginning I couldn't help but frown at her antics, which looked very deceptive and cunning to me. But yet as you learn more about her through Allie's eyes you knew there was more to the story. At the end I really liked her character, her wittiness as she put herself on the line for Allie and her family. Not afraid to do what was right to safe the day.

There were four distinctive men in Allie's life that played a huge role in who she was, what she does and the choices she would make.

Her husband Wade, was a schemer, business man, lover of self, playing the guilt trip to get his way found himself in between two worlds. One the traditional family with all its responsibilities and two a fast paced world that lives within its own rules. Trying to juggle it but making a huge mess of it all as he makes wrong choices every time, his family standing back so that he could be number one.

When Allie met Tommy, a man that attendant the same classes as she, helping her in the assignment they have received, the author just added another layer to the already filled plot. This raised more questions then answers in her life and when he shows his interest in her as a woman she had a few choices to make. This man offered her something that Wade didn't, he was interested in her and in the process helped her to find her own feet.

Her best friend James, a man that knew her the best and longest, and throughout the story she wondered about the fact that she never married her soul mate, her friend and lover. Hoping to maybe get back to him; that is if he would have her. Always there for her in her shambles of a life, guiding her and bringing her head back out of the clouds. Their casual relationship was born from years of long standing friendship, from hardships as they dealt with life, losses and truths. James did not hide the fact that he didn't like Wade but yet supported her unconditionally.

Her boss Marcus, what a character. Demanding, obnoxious full of nonsense that ruled her hours and days without any remorse for her or her young family. Acting like a spoiled brat as he demanded her attention and time to do his own bidding, but yet their relationship was open-minded as she reasoned with him about work related decisions. A relationship that had its ups and downs but yet they could work together as a team since Marcus trusted her.

With supporting characters that were out for only one thing; power and money; in a world where image and 'who you know' means something; you had a whole bunch of action going on as Allie struggles through her daily life, trying to find her feet and doing the right thing for all involved, while dealing with the image she have of men in general. As more twists are added and answers began to pop up; you get lost in her life, her choices and the greed that causes people to make the wrong decisions. All trying to find their own way in a very demanding world.

An excellent book with an unique plot that will keep you busy, leaving you with some thoughts to consider in your own life.

Blog Tour for My Mistake by Anne Conley. Excerpt and Review are available to read. Plus a great Giveaway.

 Author Anne Conley & My Family's Heart Book Reviews & Tours present "My Mistake" Book Tour & Reviews 
TITLE – My Mistake   SERIES – Stories of Serendipity   AUTHOR - Anne Conley   GENRE - Contemporary Erotic Romance   PUBLICATION DATE - April 10, 2014   LENGTH (Pages/#words) - 70,000 words   PUBLISHER – Anne Conley   COVER ARTIST – Vanessa Booke  Book Blurb/Synopsis- Welcome to Serendipity, Texas, where the days are hot and the nights are steamy. Meet real people with real problems, as they live life and find love in a small town. 12 years ago, Brent walked away from his one big love, and has regretted it ever since. He’s done nothing but make mistake after mistake with his life. Now, he’s finally getting his act together, starting up a sanctuary for abused and neglected horses, and staying clean. Casey had put Brent out of her mind the best way she knew how, by going on with her own life: getting married and trying to have kids. When her marriage ends up being a mistake, she moves back in with her mother in Serendipity to lick her wounds. What she doesn't expect is Brent, waltzing back into her life. Can they put their own and each other’s mistakes behind them to move forward together? When Casey’s life is put in danger, Brent steps up, but will it be enough? My Mistake is book seven in the Stories of Serendipity. You will meet some of the same characters, but they are all stand-alone novels.y 
Buy LinksAmazon  |  Barnes & Nobles  |  Smashwords    Excerpt-

When he came back around to the front of the barn, she was sitting on top of a bale of hay, holding up a brown paper back with a grease stain on the bottom. Mooch, traitor that he was, perched at her feet, looking up at her adoringly, waiting for her to drop the bag.

“Mama sent some chicken and biscuits.”

He grunted an acknowledgment, and pulled his hat lower over his eyes so he didn't have to see the pain in hers.

She stood, setting the bag down next to her, and sauntered over to the stall where he was spreading fresh straw.

“What’s wrong?”

He couldn't think of the words to say to her. Everything that came to mind was wrong, and Brent knew that there was no way to have this conversation without hurting her. But he had to, or else he would end up hurting her worse in the long run.

As he kicked straw around the floor of the stall, he knew he was being stupid. For the last two weeks, all he’d talked about was how badly he wanted her to stay with him. And now he was about to do this…

He finally stopped when she said, “Brent. You’re scaring me. Is this about me not being able to have kids?”

“No.” Brent brushed past her to go to the feed room. Rattling the bucket brought in the mare, an enormous equine with a shaggy coat and bones showing through loose skin. She followed him into the stall, as he emptied the bucket into her feed trough, and then started pulling the injections from his pockets and preparing them silently.

When he had the first one ready, he finally got the guts to raise his head and look at Casey and deliver the brilliant line he’d spent the past ten minutes coming up with. “I need to think about some stuff.”

Her mouth dropped, and Brent lowered his head to the mare’s shoulder. While she was distracted, eating, he pinched some skin between his gloved fingers and stuck in the needle, pushing the plunger.

Brent had no idea what happened next. All he was aware of was a swift intake of breath, before he saw a wall of brown crush into him, then a jumble of whinnies, a frantic woof, a shrill scream, some clatters, then hoofs aimed at his chest, before blackness took over.

 

I received this book from the touring host for an honest review. The book started off with recently divorced Stacey that watched a man working on a roof; relaxing at her mother’s home. While ogling and undressing this man for the last four days she thought he looked familiar, but couldn’t place him. Her thoughts very brazen as she thought about all the things she wants to do to him; wishing him to come over. He became aware that he was watched and finally made the connection when he looked in her direction waved and then continued working.While she was busy daydreaming, a knock on the door brought her back to reality, when she opened it there stood her high school crush, Brent; the same guy from the roof. 
From here on the story picked up pace and the heat sensors rocketed between them; finding each other after so many years. There were many unresolved issues between them that caused some tension; with more added problems as they got to know each other very intimately. Heating the sheets and barn to blistering hot. Brent, range owner, a sizzling hot and very demanding cowboy; was specializing in the rehabilitation of Horses. They discovered how their decisions had almost cost them each other, but they had a second change and had to work through the baggage. As the story progressed they managed against odds to work through all the obstacles. This is a well written erotic romance very believable with strong character’s that had integrity and back bone, which made this a very good read.

Well done Anne Conley, very hot but a beautiful romance which I enjoyed.
4 Stars

Author bio- Anne Conley lives in a small town in East Texas, with her husband, two kids and numerous goats. She brazenly stole her pseudonym from her great-grandmother, a true pioneer woman who raised seven kids alone: churning butter, plucking chickens, knitting clothes, and putting coal oil on every visible wound. Anne’s Stories of serendipity feature real people, living life and finding love in a small town. She also has a Paranormal Romance series, the Four Winds about archangels “falling” in love and coping with turning into humans Her writing is escapist therepy, and she succumbs to it every chance she gets. Follow The AuthorWebsite/Blog | Facebook | Twitter Giveaway Prizes Up For Grabs One winner (US only) will receive an Autographed copy of Hot Mess, a Story of Serendipity One winner will receive all seven ebooks of the Stories of Serendipity, Neighborly Complications, Dream On, Chef’s Delight, Hot Mess, Falling for Him, Gambling on Love, and My Mistake. One winner will receive a FREE ebook of My Mistake  a Rafflecopter giveaway
Tour Organized By:
                                                 

Book Tour for Freakquency by Caddell Brown. A pop culture paranormal novel.

                     
Lightning Book Promotion is working with Noma Black Publishing and author Caddell Brown to present Freakquency in a blog tour. It’s a pop culture paranormal novel.How far would you go for fame and fortune?
                  
Short blurb:Rick Chamberland had it all, fame, fortune and women. Until a phone call from his mother forced him to come home and confront the dark secrets of his family’s past. With club singer and small-town girl Song Peters at his side, Rick discovers a demonic presence connecting their families that threatens to destroy all that they hold dear.

Full Blurb: What southern-grown, rock star Rick Chamberland doesn’t know about his family’s dark past comes to light when he returns home to Louisiana at the request of his mother. Rick has spent the last fifteen years of his life dedicated to music, touring the world, completely oblivious to the secrets coded in his legacy. Meanwhile, Song Peters, a dutiful daughter taking care of a dying mother, dreams of the day she can break free of small town life and pursue her one true passion, singing. Rick meets Song and instantly sparks ignite. They make beautiful music together and soon find that they share similar upbringings. Rick comes to learn that their families are supernaturally intertwined and that the one denominator (a demon by the name Nova) connected to both families threatens to destroy them all if they do not obey.
About the author:Caddell Brown, born and raised in East Texas, authors a range of speculative fiction. Among her early influences are artists Rene Magritte, film director Andrei Tarkovsky and authors Dan Simmons, Toni Morrison and Ai. It wasn’t until after taking a course in Creative Non-Fiction that she grasped what writing could be as a form of expression and while most of her works are fiction, there is always something inside each story that touches on her years as an observant youth.
Freakquency, her first novel under this penname, was inspired by the tall-tales her uncles used to tell about the South, and the legends and folklore from around the world. When Caddell is not writing or working her regular nine-to-five, she enjoys catching a good film and exploring other interests, such as photography.
In the Fall of 2013 she will begin working towards finishing her Master’s degree in Literature as well as publishing her next work, Malle Wood through Nomablack Publishing. 
Check outFreakquency’s page on Facebook and on twitter @caddellbrown or contact the author through her website caddellbrown.com

Interview with author Kemberlee Shortland. Book tour for her Irish Pride Series.

Author’s Interview Questions
       1.       Are you famous is the general question I get when family and friends introduces me to their friends. It always left me with a pause as quick comebacks filters through my mind but ending up saying something like ….”Oh gee thanks” and give a shy smile, silly I know but the idea unsettles me. (a)Does this happen to you and (b) what do you say?
LOL No, I’ve never been asked if I’m famous. If I ever were asked, I’d probably come out with something cheeky like, “Yeah, in my own mind.” I also figure if I was famous, they wouldn’t have to ask me that question.
       2.       In general do you like to talk about you writing and published books or are you very close-lip about it? If no why?
I’m a talker. Give me a subject and it’s hard to shut me up. I inherited this trait from my father, which is why when we Skype, we can be on for more than 5 hours! So yeah, I like talking about my books. However, I won’t give away plot elements of books I’m currently working on unless I’m having a plot party with my crit partner.
        3.       What book/s are you currently writing and what is it about?
I have a few projects in the fire at the moment, but the one I’m currently promoting is Shape of My Heart which published on 11 April. This is the third book in the Irish Pride series, which are all set in modern-day Ireland. Grainne Vaughan has come to a point in her life where she needs to grow up. She was raised by her brother, Kieran (from Rhythm of My Heart), who usually picks up after her messes. She envies how he’s found ‘the one’ and wants love for herself. But that has to wait because she needs to get responsible for her life which involves a full time job and to finish college. Only college is very expensive so she moonlights as a dancer in a club in Dublin. John ‘JD’ Desmond is an undercover detective with the Dublin Guards (police) and has been watching this particular club, as it’s being run as a drug front. He takes a part time job where Grainne works at her day job to gather intell, but when she doesn’t talk about her moonlighting job, he discovers her secret and blackmails her into helping him. When they fall in love, everything changes. Then Grainne witnesses her boss being murdered at the hands of a man known as The Hunter, who’s one of the city’s drug kingpins operating out of the club. JD has to take her into hiding until The Hunter can be found. But The Hunter has skills and tracks the two down, and the race is on to save their lives or die trying.
        4.       Why this particular genre?
Why romance? It’s full of emotion. Other genres, like mysteries, usually involve the mind . . . gathering clues, analyzing facts, correlating things and putting them into an order to solve a crime or mystery. With romance, it’s all about emotion and seeing the story through the protagonist’s eyes . . . feeling what he/she feels, hearing what he/she hears, tastes what he/she tastes . . . This, to me, is what pulls me into the story. I want a story to put me on the back of a horse in Medieval times, or into a speeding car in contemporary times. I want to feel the wind in my hair, the rush of excitement racing through me. If a couple is eating strawberries in cream, I want to taste them. It’s one thing to say ‘they ate strawberries in cream’ but something wholly different to experience the flavor and textures with the character. And I want to know what their reaction is to it. Are they feeding each other? Does it turn them on? If so, what do they do about it? Know what I mean?


         5.       What inspire or motivate you to write?
I love telling stories and I love communicating and engaging with readers. I’m a people person. I love talking and engaging with people, and I find that I can do that very well through my writing. I’m not hugely hung up on reviews, but in a way, they kind of complete the circle of communication — Example: Reader says, “Tell me a story about a woman with a desire to ‘find herself’ and find love.” As my reply, I write that story as I see it. The reader reads my communication in that story, then replies back with how they felt about the story . . . how they felt about my reply to their initial statement. Circle complete. Unless that book is part of a series and the reader follows it, then we’re communicating back and forth through each story as it’s told. I love it when the reader communicates back with me, “When is the next story coming?” That’s motivating for me.
         6.       What is the writing process like for you?
It’s probably like most writers — Idea > Research > Notes > First Draft > Edit > Redraft/Rewrite > Edit > Redraft/Rewrite > Edit, etc until the book is about as perfect as I think it is > Submit. If accepted > Edit > Amend > Edit > Amend until the editor thinks it’s ready for publication. Sometimes the editing process can take longer than the first draft stage. But I love it all!
        7.       How did/do you teach yourself to write?
Read everything in my genre and similar genre, and write, write, write. Listen to advice and write, write, write. We learn something every book we write. We improve with every book we write. If we’re not learning with every book we write, we’re not writing right. Right?
        8.       What aspect of the craft do you think is most difficult to learn?
Patience and taking criticism. We must learn both or we’ll fail.
        9.       What has been the most encouraging comment someone has made about your writing?
The most encouraging thing for me to hear is that I’ve done my job well. Everything else is a bonus.
        10.   What is the best and/ or worst part of being a writer?
I love the creative and research processes or writing. Having a story in mind and putting the historical pieces together to make the fiction work. I love it when I plot a story out then hit the internet or library for historical data, only to find that what I’ve plotted from my imagination really did happen! That happened with my WIP, The Diary. One of my plot elements was . . .  oh, wait, I don’t talk about those before the book is published J
       11.   Any advice for struggling writers?
Read everything and write, write, write. Listen to criticism with an open ear, especially from professionals. And appreciate every bit of help offered.
       12.   What is your favorite genre to read or write?
Romance, first and foremost, and most subgenre — historical, contemporary, erotica, suspense, paranormal . . . some fantasy and sci fi. It’s all good. When I’m not reading romance, I really enjoy Dean Koontz. He cut his teeth writing romance back in the 70s and his current work still has romantic elements and a similar style seen in romance today, especially in the use of emotion. And I enjoy bios, particularly those of classic rock musicians, such as Janis Joplin, Jimi Hendrix, Cass Eliot, even David Cassidy. I’m currently reading, as I write this, the recent bio of Robert Plant and enjoying it. I love these types of bios because I love music from that period and these ‘stories’ give me a sense of the period, especially as these people’s lives all intersected at one point or two.
                                                        
       13.   Favorite author?
Depends on the genre — Dean Koontz for thrillers, Linda Howard for romantic suspense, Elizabeth Chadwick for historical fiction . . . And I’ve read some great stories as standalones from the author; I may enjoy one of an author’s works but not all of them.
       14.   Do you have a favorite spot to read and write? Share a photo if you have one.
I tend to read in bed before lights out, so you’re not getting that picture! I also like reading in the car while on long drives . . . provided those long drives are mundane, otherwise I’m looking out the window and my mind goes into research mode. I may look like I’m day dreaming, but inside I’m plotting ;-)
       15.   What did you do before you became a writer?
Well, now. How long have we got? I’ve been called a jack of all trades. I hold two diplomas; one in pet nutrition and the other in hotel and restaurant management. Some of the oddest jobs I’ve had though include babysitting sea otters, pumping gas, and greenwear cleaning. I don’t think any of those are odd, but others tell me they are. Your readers can decide.
       16.    What do you like to do when not writing? 
I knit, take photos, blog, play with our hairy kids (we have two Border Collies), gardening, sometimes cooking, and not necessarily in that order.
       17.   Do you have a bucket/ to-do list and would you share at least two things on it?
I don’t do bucket lists. I feel they’re the biggest set up for disappointment, especially if I can’t or don’t do everything on it before I take my last breath. There are things I’d *like* to do at some point in my life, but if I never get a chance to, it won’t upset me . . . if that makes sense. I just try living the best I can every day and enjoy what I have now. I *do* have to-do lists, but sadly, they’re all about work.
       18.   Most daring thing or experience you have done you would like to share?
I think that’s relative. I’m horribly afraid of heights so walking across the Golden Gate Bridge, even if just partially, was monumental for me. I’m not a thrill seeker in the least, which I equate to daring. I used to think I wanted to learn to hang glide. Not anymore lol
                                                              
       19.   This or that questions:                ·          Coffee or Tea – Diet Coke               ·         Sweet or savory – Sweet               ·      Home make meal or takeouts – Both have their appeal               ·        Winter or summer – Summer               ·        Night-owl or Early-Bird – Night Owl               ·       Telephone or visits – Phone at the moment since everyone I know lives so far away.               ·          Which social network do you prefer? Facebook               ·          Blogger or website? Blogger as a website ;-)               ·         What does your family say about your career? Supportive or Clueless – Very supportive!
And Finally
20.   Moto/wisdom in life you live by. Never say never.Never say always.Always say maybe!
Contact details and buy links of the newest books you would like the readers to know.
Website: / Blog: / Blog: / Blog: Facebook: / Twitter: / Linkedin:  /  Amazon Author Page:  Smashwords: / Goodreads: / Tirgearr Publishing: 
Pinterest: Time suck! Not on there. But I’m sure it’s only a matter of time

Thank you so much for having me here today. I’ve really enjoyed chatting with you and look forward to meeting your readers!Kemberlee

AUTHOR BIO
Kemberlee Shortland was born and raised in Northern California in an area known as America's Salad Bowl. It was home to many authors, including John Steinbeck, and for a while Jack London and Robert Louis Stevenson. In 1997, Kemberlee had the opportunity to live in Ireland for six months where she ended up meeting a man who convinced her to stay. Kemberlee is now celebrating her seventeeth year in Ireland and has been lucky to travel the country extensively, picking up a cupla focal along the way—a few Irish words.
Kemberlee was an early-reader and has been writing since a very young age, and over the years she has published many travel articles and book reviews, as well as worked some notable authors who’ve set their books in Ireland.
After publishing travel articles since 1997, Kemberlee saw her first short stories published, and now has eight published books to her name and half a dozen others languishing in a drawer.
Away from the computer, Kemberlee enjoys knitting and other needlecrafts, playing with her Border Collies, castle hunting, travel, reading, gardening, and cookery. One day she hopes to have time to learn to play guitar properly.






RHYTHM OF MY HEART Irish Pride series, book oneKemberlee Shortland
BLURB
Artist Representative, Eilis Kennedy, gave up a singing career so that other women could have a fair chance at having their music heard. Having suffered rejection from callous men in the industry, she thought she would get away from ‘casting couch’ mentality. But when she finds herself in the office of Fergus Manley, all bets are off. Disgusted by his continual come-ons and lewd invitations, Eilis is looking for ‘the one’ who will take her career to the next level, getting out from under Fergus’s controlling thumb.
Aspiring blues guitarist, Kieran Vaughan, is looking for his big break. But after suffering near bankruptcy at the hands of an unscrupulous business partner, Kieran is left picking up the pieces. He’s unsure if the debts will ever be paid or if he’ll ever have a chance to do something with his music. At his whit’s end, he’s about ready to throw in the towel and find a full-time job with real hours.
When Eilis discovers Kieran playing in a seedy pub in Dublin’s Northside, she knows he’s the one rare talent she’s been searching for. With her know-how and his talent, Eilis will finally get everything she’s been waiting for. Neither of them count on the powerful attraction from first meeting. Eilis is so rocked by Keiran’s forthright words that it sends her running. Kieran risks being arrested as he chases Eilis across Ireland.
Seeing what’s happening between Eilis and Kieran, anger wells inside Fergus and he steps up his pursuit of Eilis. Refusing to let Kieran get in his way, Fergus vows to add Eilis’s notch to his bedpost, whatever it takes.
Will Kieran be able to protect her?

EXTRACT
Dublin's Northside looked far different by day than it did at night. Last night’s storm had been one of the season’s worst. Huge puddles hampered traffic, and trash had collected in the corners of doorways and blocked the gutters. The lingering breeze was still crisp and signaled the imminent winter. Wisps of dark clouds streaked the pale blue sky but remained reminiscent of last night’s tempest.
As the taxi drove through Dublin’s inner city, a blur of tacky euro shops, shoddy newsagents and off-licenses, all with shop fronts that had seen better days, flashed by.
Finglas wasn’t noted as one of Dublin’s prime locations. This was a large blue collar suburb in a rapidly expanding city. Lack in a pride of ownership was evident, as residents struggled to make ends meet, which gave the area a rough underbelly. The Little Man Pub was a perfect example of both.
Eilis wrapped her arms around her middle, instinctively protective. Was this the compromise she must face to get where she wanted?
When the taxi slowed at a junction, she pressed herself back in her seat. A group of out-of-work young men sipping something from a paper bag spun their heads and looked at her.
Just this once, just this once, she chanted to herself.
Just this one trip to find Kieran Vaughan and that would be it. She’d never have to come back to this place ever again. She could stay safely tucked away in her D2 house for the rest of her days. She’d worked hard for that house. She deserved it. She deserved it all the more now by putting herself through this.
Long ago, Eilis had vowed never to set foot in the Northside again. But if it took this one last visit to get what she needed, it would be worth it.
The taxi pulled around the corner and the now familiar entrance to The Little Man Pub came into view. Nicotine-stained curtains were pulled across windows, reflecting the unkempt street. The façade’s red and black paint was weather-faded to pink and gray. The ‘M’ on the sign hung askew and swung in the breeze, and the ‘P’ was missing altogether. Had she not been here last night she would have thought the place was shut.
She pulled some money from her purse to hand to the driver. “I’ll wait fer ye, luv,” he said, waving her money away. “Taxis can be hard to come by ‘round here.”
Eilis was suitably taken aback. “Thank you. I won’t be a moment.”
She swallowed hard, got out of the taxi then entered the pub.
Her eyes slowly adjusted to the dark room. The few men sitting around the bar turned their gazes in her direction. Understandably. A well-groomed businesswoman in the pub was surely a novelty. These men were long since retired, or long since employed. Their stubbled faces meant they hadn’t shaved in several days, or possibly weeks. The dim light hid the worst of their unkempt appearances, but nothing could disguise their unwashed clothes. A pong in the room wafted into her nostrils, causing her stomach to lurch again.
Shoulders back, she strode to the bar.
The same man from last night stood behind the counter. He was short and pudgy with missing front teeth. His disheveled appearance made him look like one of his patrons. Had he not been behind the counter she wouldn’t have been able to tell the difference.
His striped brown and white shirt had frayed cuffs and was open to mid-chest, showing a sweat-stained t-shirt underneath. His brown trousers had seen much better days and were held together not with a button or belt, but with a bit of twine looping between his belt loops, his round belly spilling over. The only thing holding up the trousers was his equally round bum. It seemed to push the waistband up in the back as his belly pushed it down in the front. The sight would have been funny if her stomach hadn’t been flip-flopping.
Her voice cracked when she first spoke, but it picked up strength in her determination to make something of this horrid trek. “A-are you the proprietor?”
A broad gap-toothed grin creased the man’s face and, loud enough for his patrons to hear, he said, “I’ll be who ever ye want me to be, luv.”
His friends burst into laughter. Eilis felt the flush rise in her cheeks. Not because she was embarrassed, but from frustration. She just wanted to get this meeting over with and she wasn’t in the mood to spar.
She stood her ground. “I’m looking for the man who played guitar here last night. Kieran Vaughan. We have business. Will you please tell me where I can find him?” She looked the man in the eye, much as she could, considering she stood a good half-foot taller than him, even without her heels.
“No, miss, I doubt you have any business with himself. ‘Speshly a fine lass such as yerself. Now, if ye were to come home with a real man like meself, well . . .” He left the rest unsaid, the insinuation hanging in the air.
Her gaze never wavered as she stared the little man in the eye.
“Sir,” she smiled sweetly, honey dripping from her words. She leaned over the bar just enough to give him a glimpse of the swell of her breast through the opening of her blouse. “I doubt you have anything I would be interested in. Besides, you don’t really want me to find out why this place is called The Little Man, do you?”
This earned the publican long oohs and sniggers from the patrons, who were now on the edges of their seats waiting to hear the disagreeable little man's response.
Obviously taken aback by such a brazen retort, the man stood gaping and red-faced at her for a moment before he got his wits about him. He winked at the men around the bar. “Oy does like me birds feisty!” That only encouraged more laughter.
Eilis could have enjoyed the banter if only the man wasn’t so repulsive. All she wanted to do was meet Kieran Vaughan and get out of Finglas as quickly as possible.
When the laughing stopped, Eilis’s gaze never wavered as she said, “Well?”
“Well what, loov?” he asked, wiping the tears from his eyes with a dirty bar towel.
“Are you going to tell me where to find Kieran Vaughan?” He was trying her patience, but she did her best to keep the frustration out of her voice.
Then she sensed someone step up behind her and straightened instantly. Somehow she knew it was Kieran. The feral scent of him permeated her senses and quickened her pulse. Butterflies replaced the strange ache in her stomach that had been there just moments before.
She slowly turned and looked up at the most handsome man she’d ever seen in her life. She found herself instantly speechless.
She'd seen him on stage the night before and knew he was handsome. But this close up . . . Never before had she seen such blue eyes. As she gazed into them, they changed from the light steel blue to the color of storm clouds heavily ringed with gunmetal. That he had dark brows and thick lashes only made his gaze seem more intense.
“Ye’ve found him, loov,” said the little man, taunting her. “Now what are ye goin’ ta do with him?”
The hammering of her heart and the pulsing blood in her temples blocked out the noise in the room as she looked into Kieran Vaughan’s eyes. To her dismay, her knees actually quivered.
Something in the pit of her belly ached. No, something else. It was like warm melting honey running through her marrow. In that moment she longed to touch him, to brush the unruly wave of his dark hair away from his face, to feel his lips against the pads of her fingers, to . . .
When he spoke she almost didn’t hear him.
“Like the man said, now that you’ve found me, what are you going to do with me?” His eyes sparkled with unabashed mischief.
“Anything you want me to.”




A PIECE OF MY HEART Irish Pride series, book twoKemberlee Shortland

BLURB
Mick and Kate thought they were falling in love. Kate hadn't been just the girl next door. She'd been Mick's life, and he hers. When an unforeseen force draws them apart they're left with wounds that refuse to heal. Now, ten years on, Mick's father's will should have been straightforward, except his addendum was like ice water in Mick's face.
It's essential that Mick and Kate work together to save his family's farm. Mick doesn't count on his new manager being accused of murder, and Kate doesn't expect a dangerously seductive woman from Dublin to claim Mick is the father of her child.
Kate thought she was falling in love with Mick all over again; however this newest revelation is too much for her. She is determined to finally say goodbye to her childhood sweetheart forever, but Mick has other plans for Kate's future. And none of them involve goodbye.

EXTRACT
“What are you doing here?”
“Nice to see you too, Mick.” She opened one eye to look at him.
He stood just inside the solicitor’s office door. He’d expected Kate at the funeral service yesterday, but he couldn’t see any reason for her to be here today.
He scowled in her direction, then strode to reception. The clerk behind the desk turned a harried glance his way, continuing to sort folders beside her computer. “Can I help you?” she asked, not bothering to stop what she was doing.
“Michael Spillane to see Tighe Lynch,” he grumbled.
Finally looking up, the clerk said, “He’s expecting you. I’ll let him know you’re here.”
As the clerk reached for the intercom, he turned back to Kate. If this hadn’t been his father’s solicitor’s office and if today hadn’t been the reading of his father’s will, he would have appreciated the sight of her in her smart dark blue suit, white blouse with the Irish lace trim, and matching blue pumps. She sat calmly, her head against the wall behind her, eyes closed. She bent her shapely legs under her and crossed them at the ankle, her hands folded in her lap.
Her emerald eyes hid beneath lids edged with thick dark lashes. He knew the exact shade of them since he’d looked into them so often in the past. They were eyes no man could forget.
Her normally unruly black hair was pulled back in a twist and away from her heart shaped face.
When they were kids he used to love it when she left her hair down. The tight curls of it bounced over her shoulders like springs when she ran. He’d seen her like that once last year when he’d been home for a couple days during Christmas.
They’d been invited to join the Conneelys, but he’d convinced his father not to go. He couldn’t bear being in the same room with her for so long, but she’d delivered food and he’d suffered anyway.
He recalled how he’d stiffened just watching her walk across the farmyard. As he did now. He mentally shook himself. This wasn’t the time or place to get an erection. The business at hand was the will and what she was doing here now. Not the fact that just looking at her could make him stiff.
Clearing his throat, he repeated, “You didn’t answer my question. What are you doing here?”
Her eyes fluttered open. The look she gave him made his heart skip a beat. His groin tightened again watching her tongue smooth its way over her lips. She had no idea just how erotic that simple act was. She was about to speak when a door opened behind him. Both of them spun to face Tighe Lynch.
“Mickleen,” Tighe exclaimed, using the common endearment and thrusting his hand into his. “Welcome home, lad. I just wish it were under different circumstances. I can’t tell you how much Donal will be missed.”
Mick could only tip his head at the man’s kindness. Words were still too hard to come by.
Tighe grasped Kate by her shoulders as she stood to greet him and kissed her on both cheeks. “Kate. Lovely as ever. Won’t you both step into my office?”
Not one to stand on ceremony, Mick strode through the door ahead of Kate and Tighe and went right into the solicitor’s office. He knew where it was. Was it really only a little more than two years ago he’d been here to discuss his mother’s will?
His scowl deepened when Kate walked through the office door ahead of Tighe. He got the perfect look at her shapely bum as she was forced to step between him and the desk to the seat beside him. He shifted in his seat, crossing his legs and pulling his coat around him to hide his erection. He kept his mind on wondering why she was at the reading of his father’s will to keep his libido under control.
Surely, she’d earned a regular wage for the time she spent cleaning his father’s house and cooking his meals. She was hired help and would have been paid accordingly. So there should be no reason why she should be here today. Unless there was something the solicitor knew and wasn’t telling them. Yet.
“I thought this was just a formality, Tighe. Why is she here?” He couldn’t even use her name. Just the feel of it in his mouth would leave him tongue-tied.
Tighe stopped him with an upheld hand. “If you’ll both bear with me, I will explain.” The solicitor turned to a folder on his desk and opened it, extracting two documents. Holding one before him, he said, “This is your father’s will, Michael. It’s all very straight forward. In it, the farm, the stock, the land—almost everything is left to you.”
“Almost?”
“We’ll get to that, lad,” Tighe said.
Tighe looked at Kate and held up the second document.
“This is the addendum to the will.”
“Addendum?” she asked.
“An addendum means that instead of making up a whole new will, Dad just changed it.” Mick, not looking at her, directed his statement to the solicitor and waited for the shoe to drop.
Leave it to his father to make this more difficult on him than it already was. Wasn’t it bad enough he couldn’t get rid of the tremendous feeling of guilt for not spending more time with him? He never wanted to believe—or admit—his father was that sick. Sure, Kate called him regularly with updates. He heard everything she’d said, but why the hell hadn’t he listened to her!
“Changed the will?” she asked. “Is that right, Mr. Lynch?”
“In a manner of speaking,” Tighe replied. “It means he added something into the original will.”
“When was this?” Mick asked.
“If you’ll allow me, I’ll read what Donal has bequeathed. If you have any questions we can go from there. Right?”
Both Mick and Kate nodded agreement. Tighe read the will as it stood and then the addendum. Mick couldn’t believe what he was hearing. “That bastard!” he muttered. Out of the corner of his eye he saw the wide glares both Kate and Tighe gave him at the curse.
“Mr. Lynch.” Kate’s voice came on a whisper. “What does this mean? I don’t understand it.” Her eyes were big as she clutched the arms of her chair now, knuckles as white as her face. Gone was the cool Kate he’d seen in the waiting room. In a matter of minutes she’d gone from radiant to ashen. He was sure he wasn’t looking too good right about now either.
“Yes, can you explain it in plain English?” he asked. Why do will readings always have to be so damn dramatic?
“In plain English, your father left everything to you, Michael. However, the addendum states if you try to sell the farm, I have instructions to give everything to Kate.”
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SHAPE OF MY HEART Irish Pride series, book threeKemberlee Shortland

BLURB
Gráinne has moved back to Dublin to get her life straightened out. She dreams of college and a better life. She’s working for her brother, Kieran, in his newly reopened pub, The Blues Tavern, but the money isn’t enough to support herself and pay tuition. Moonlighting at The Klub! as an exotic dancer seems to be her answer fast money.
John ‘JD’ Desmond is a detective working undercover in the Blues Tavern. The Klub!, owned by Jimmy Malloy, is being used as a drug front, headed by the notorious Taylor Wade. JD had intended to get Gráinne to snitch for him, but when he falls in love with her, things get complicated.
When Gráinne witnesses Jimmy’s murder, she and JD are forced to go on the run until Wade can be apprehended. Wade lives up to his nickname, The Hunter, and JD and Gráinne quickly find themselves at the end of a gun and running for their lives.

EXTRACT
Over the next couple hours JD tread lightly around Gráinne and peace settled between them. He hadn’t had the opportunity to talk to her again with the evening prep, but as he looked at his watch he knew her shift ended soon.
He’d tried almost every tactic he could think of to get her to reveal more about herself and he was getting anxious at her continued aloofness. He didn’t want to have to resort to seducing her. While the idea of getting her into bed was appealing, he just preferred to do it under other circumstances. He fancied her like hell, but he couldn’t let his libido get in the way of his job. She was his best hope at getting the information he desperately needed. So he’d have to resort to another tactic if he was going to get her to talk. Blackmail was one he was loath to use, but at this stage in the game, he had little choice.
There was a lull in the pub now that the afternoon crowds were gone and the evening prep had been done. If he was going to confront her, he had to do it now.
Gráinne stood at the end of the bar flipping through a magazine. The twinkling Christmas lights over the back bar shone on her dark hair. As she moved, the highlights reflected like electric current through the strands curling around her face. His heart thumped a little harder looking at her.
He reminded himself he wasn’t here to bartend. He was here to gather information. His future depended on it. He couldn’t afford another wasted day so it was now or never.
His pounding heart made it suddenly hard to breathe. He hated having to do this to her.
“Gráinne, can we talk?”
“Talk?” She put her magazine aside. “About what?”
“I think you know.” He locked gazes with her. He could tell she was nervous by the way she started fidgeting.
Then she turned away, refusing to look at him for longer than a millisecond. “My love life is none of your concern,” she told him, reminding him unnecessarily of their previous discussion.
“That’s not what I’m talking about.”
“Then I don’t know what you mean.” She spun on her heel, intent on leaving the bar area.
He grasped her arm. To his surprise, she didn’t struggle. But something odd happened as he loosened his grasp. He felt something powerful pass between them. His fingers tingled as he touched her. It radiated up his arm and shot through his body.
For the second time today, he felt himself stiffen, and wished that circumstances were different, that she was naked beneath him and gazing up at him with eyes he knew would undo him.
She glanced over her shoulder, but not directly at him. “Let me go.” Her barely audible words shook him back to the moment. It wasn’t a command, but he couldn’t help noticing her words were tinged with pleading.
“Will you stay to talk with me? I think this is important.” His own voice was softer now. When she relaxed he reluctantly released his hold. She kept her gaze averted, her arms folded protectively in front of her, refusing to look at him. He knew she was waiting for something, anything, to draw her away.
Reaching under the bar, he extracted the black plastic sack he’d brought in with him today. He knew the item inside would shatter any peace he hoped to make with her.
He looked at the sack for a moment, thinking about what could never be between them. There was a job to be done and it didn’t include getting emotionally involved. He hoped the more he reminded himself of this fact he’d eventually come to believe it.
Sighing, he extracted a black velvet bra and held it up for her inspection. She only cast it a side-glance.
“I take it you know where I got this.”
“Anne Summers?”
“No.”
“Well then, I have no idea.”
He saw her swallow hard then move over to the taps to pour herself a cola. She swallowed deeply from the glass.
“I think you do. Let’s not . . . dance . . . around the subject, Gráinne. We both know where I got this, and I’d lay odds at Paddy Powers your brother doesn’t know what you’ve been up to.”
His heart ached as he forced himself to goad her.
The look she shot him would have incinerated the average man, but he wasn’t average. He was a man with a mission, and Gráinne was the only one who could help him.
“By that look, I’d say I’ve hit the nail on the head.”
“So, what of it.”

“Why haven’t you told Kieran?” he asked, trying to keep his voice calm.
“I somehow doubt he’d understand why I’m . . . moonlighting.”
JD chuckled lightly. “Moonlighting? Is that what they’re calling it these days?”
“Just stop. What do you want from me? Not that it’s any of your business what I do on my own time.”
“I need your help.”
A single brow arched over her eye. “With what? Wait, let me guess,” she seethed, throwing her hands on her hips. “You want a private show. Or you want me to entertain some friends. And you’re going to use this,” she fingered the bra he still held in his hand, “as a bribe to get me to do it for free.”
“Not quite. While I wouldn’t mind a private show, it’s not entertainment I’m looking for.”
“What’s this?” Kieran suddenly appeared behind the bar, startling them both. JD saw Gráinne’s face go pale, and thought she would faint then and there.